The Women's Tennis Association (WTA) announced on Thursday that all combined WTA 1000 tournaments will offer equal prize money to men and women beginning in 2027. This decision will include events such as the Italian Open, aligning them with other major tournaments that already ensure equal pay.
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By 2027, the Italian Open, which Billie Jean King famously won nearly sixty years ago, will finally achieve equal prize payouts for both genders as part of this significant initiative. This marks the first time all combined WTA 1000 events will feature equal prize money.
The Canadian Open, Cincinnati Open, and Italian Open will now conform to the standards set by other combined 1000-level events, including Indian Wells, Miami, Madrid, and the United Cup, along with all four Grand Slams. WTA chair Valerie Camillo highlighted this achievement as a major milestone, affirming the organization's commitment to financial equality and competitive opportunities for athletes.
In addition to the prize money announcement, the 2027 WTA calendar is set to include 55 tournaments across 26 countries and territories. The WTA Finals will be held in Charlotte, North Carolina, in an NBA arena for a minimum of three years starting in 2027.
A new expanded WTA 250-level tournament will also debut in Manila, Philippines, reflecting heightened interest in the local player Alex Eala. Furthermore, the WTA has reduced the annual requirement for top 50-ranked players from six to four WTA 500-level tournaments, meaning a total commitment of 14 WTA tournaments plus the four Grand Slams for the 2027 season.
These changes, approved by the WTA Board, aim to accommodate player feedback regarding calendar demands and enhance support for players and tournaments moving forward.